What is a system prompt?
A system prompt is a hidden set of instructions the app gives the AI before you type anything. It sets the AI's role, tone and rules.
In real life
Like a manager's briefing before the shop opens: customers never hear it, but it shapes how every one of them is served.
Try it yourself
Your prompt: add building blocks
What you send
Suggest a cake.
Prompt strength: 0 of 4 blocks
This lesson
AI reply
Try chocolate cake or Victoria sponge.
Change the system prompt and the same question gets a different answer. You never see these instructions, but the AI follows them every time.
Where you will use this
- Track 1, lesson 6: Custom instructions and memoryComing soon
- Track 2, lesson 7: Writing a CLAUDE.mdComing soon
Quick check: System prompt
Question 1 of 3